Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti (diabetic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Chocolate Hazelnut Biscotti
Chocolate hazelnut biscotti is a delightful Italian treat that has been enjoyed for centuries, originally crafted as a durable snack for travelers. This diabetic-friendly version swaps out traditional sugar for a blend of natural sweeteners, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. The rich chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the nutty crunch of hazelnuts, creating a perfect balance that will satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your blood sugar in check.
Biscotti, meaning 'twice-baked' in Italian, are known for their dry and crunchy texture, making them ideal for dipping in coffee or tea. This recipe maintains that classic crunch while incorporating healthier ingredients, such as almond flour and sugar substitutes. The result is a delightful treat that is not only lower in sugar but also high in fiber, thanks to the use of whole ingredients. And let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want to dunk a biscotti into their coffee without feeling like they’re breaking any dietary rules?
As you prepare these biscotti, you’ll find that the process is straightforward and rewarding. The dough comes together quickly, and the first bake fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. After the second bake, you’ll have perfectly crisp biscotti that are just begging to be paired with your favorite hot beverage. So grab your apron and let’s get baking—because life is too short to skip dessert, even when you’re watching your sugar intake!
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cups sugar substitute
- 3 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cups chopped hazelnuts
- 0.5 cups sugar-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of almond flour, 0.5 cups of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.
- In another bowl, beat together 0.75 cups of sugar substitute and 3 eggs until the mixture is light and frothy. This aeration helps create a lighter texture in the finished biscotti.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture and stir to combine. The vanilla adds depth to the chocolate flavor, making each bite more satisfying.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain some air in the dough.
- Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped hazelnuts and 0.5 cups of sugar-free chocolate chips. These will provide a delightful crunch and bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- Transfer the dough onto the prepared baking sheet and shape it into a log about 12 inches long and 4 inches wide. Flatten the top slightly to ensure even baking.
- Bake the log in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until it is firm to the touch and slightly cracked on top. This initial bake sets the structure of your biscotti.
- Remove the log from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling period makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
- Using a serrated knife, slice the log diagonally into 1-inch thick pieces. The diagonal cuts create more surface area for that perfect crunch.
- Place the sliced biscotti back on the baking sheet, cut side up, and return them to the oven for an additional 15 minutes. This second bake ensures they are crisp and ready for dipping.
- After 15 minutes, turn off the oven and leave the biscotti inside for another 10 minutes to dry out further. This step is crucial for achieving that classic biscotti texture.
- Remove the biscotti from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Serve your chocolate hazelnut biscotti with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and rich flavors, knowing you’ve made a healthier choice!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 90
- Carbs g: 8
- Protein g: 3
- Fat g: 6
- Sugar g: 1
